Dogs are one of the most loyal and loving pets you can have at home. However, it’s important to understand that dogs can be easily suspicious of strangers, and even a little twig can make them feel uneasy around you.

As a dog owner, it’s essential to keep this in mind. Your furry friend needs to feel comfortable and safe around you, so it’s your responsibility to learn how to interact with your dog properly and understand their needs.

Why Do Dogs Get Uneasy Around People?

Dogs have an excellent sense of smell, sight, and sound. They use these senses to help them understand their surroundings and evaluate any potential danger.

When you’re interacting with a dog, he’s going to use all of his senses to assess whether you’re a friend or a foe. If the dog picks up on any signs that something isn’t right, he will naturally become uneasy around you.

For example, if you’re feeling anxious, nervous, or scared, your dog will pick up on these emotions. As a result, their body language may become tense, and they may start to bark or growl at you.

Similarly, if you’re carrying something that the dog perceives as a weapon, such as a stick or a branch, they may begin to feel uneasy around you.

Another reason why dogs can get uneasy around people is that they have a history of abuse or mistreatment. If you have adopted a rescue dog, he may be extra sensitive to any signs of aggression or danger.

Even if you’re well-intentioned, the dog may still perceive you as a threat if he has had a traumatic experience in the past.

How to Make Your Dog Comfortable Around You

The good news is that there are plenty of things you can do to help your dog feel comfortable and safe around you. Here are some tips:.

1. Be Calm and Confident

Dogs can quickly pick up on your emotions, so it’s essential to be calm and confident when you’re interacting with your dog. If you’re anxious or nervous, your dog may become uneasy around you.

Instead, try to remain relaxed and confident, use a soothing voice, and approach your dog in a non-threatening way.

2. Pay Attention to Body Language

Dogs use their body language to communicate their emotions. If you want to help your dog feel comfortable and safe around you, it’s essential to pay attention to their body language.

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Look for signs that your dog is feeling relaxed, such as wagging his tail, relaxed ears, and a relaxed body posture. If your dog’s body is tense, their ears are back, or their tail is between their legs, it’s a sign that they’re feeling uneasy.

3. Avoid Using Aggressive Body Language

Dogs perceive aggression through body language, so it’s essential to avoid using any aggressive body language when you’re interacting with your dog.

This includes things like standing over your dog, getting too close to their face, or reaching towards them suddenly.

4. Use Positive Reinforcement

Dogs respond very well to positive reinforcement. If you want to help your dog feel comfortable and safe around you, try to use positive reinforcement as much as possible. This includes things like treats, praise, or playtime.

Whenever your dog responds positively to your presence, reward him with something he loves.

5. Give Your Dog Space

Sometimes, all your dog needs is a little space. If your dog is feeling uneasy around you, try to give him space and allow him time to come to you on his own terms.

Forcing your dog to interact with you when he’s feeling uneasy can make the situation worse.

6. Be Patient

Building trust with your dog takes time and patience. It’s important to remember that your dog’s trust needs to be earned, and this can take weeks or even months.

Be patient, and don’t force your dog to interact with you before he’s ready.

Conclusion

Remember, even a little twig can make a dog uneasy around you. Dogs are sensitive creatures that rely on their senses to understand their surroundings.

If you want to have a strong bond with your dog, it’s essential to learn how to interact with them properly. By being calm and confident, paying attention to their body language, and using positive reinforcement, you can help your dog feel comfortable and safe around you.